A simulation model for propagation of partial discharge pulses in transformers

Partial discharge (PD) measurement is widely accepted as a quality control test for power transformers due to its ability to detect incipient insulation faults. For further development of PD testing as a diagnostic tool, it is important to study the propagation of PD pulses in transformers. A general simulation model is necessary which should include the different construction of transformer windings. In this paper, a simulation model is introduced which is constructed in the frequency domain and which takes account of the frequency dependent characteristics of transformer windings. A description of parameter calculation methods and system solutions is given. Some simulation results are presented. The promising application of this model in the simulation study of PD's in power transformers is outlined.